Red Dead Redemption 2: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Switch 2 Rumors
Red Dead Redemption 2 stands as a monumental achievement in interactive entertainment. Since its 2018 release, Rockstar Games' sprawling Western epic has captivated players with its breathtaking world, compelling narrative, and unparalleled attention to detail. Having sold over 64 million copies worldwide, it is cemented as one of the best-selling and most critically acclaimed video games of all time. Yet, for all its success, one question has persistently followed the title into the current hardware generation: will we ever see a native version for the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo's upcoming hardware?
While the game is playable on today's consoles via backward compatibility, the demand for a true, optimized current-gen port remains incredibly high. Despite Rockstar's official silence on the matter, a trail of leaks, official documents, and insider reports has painted a compelling, if complicated, picture. Here is everything we know about the long-rumored next-gen journey for Arthur Morgan and the Van der Linde gang.
The Allure of a True Next-Gen RDR2
For years, fans have dreamed of what a native Red Dead Redemption 2 port could deliver. While the game still looks stunning today, a version built specifically for the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S could unlock its true potential. The most requested feature, by far, is a higher frame rate. The game is currently locked to 30 frames per second (FPS) on consoles, and the prospect of experiencing its fluid animations and frantic gunfights at a buttery-smooth 60 FPS is the primary driver behind the demand.
Beyond a performance boost, a native port could offer a suite of other enhancements:
- Faster Loading: Utilizing the consoles' ultra-fast SSDs could make fast travel and initial load times virtually instantaneous.
- Enhanced Visuals: Higher-resolution textures, improved draw distances, and advanced lighting effects like ray tracing could push the already gorgeous world to new heights of realism.
- DualSense Integration: A PlayStation 5 version could take advantage of the DualSense controller's haptic feedback and adaptive triggers to add a new layer of immersion, letting players feel the kick of a Schofield revolver or the tension of a bowstring.
A Trail of Conflicting Clues
The saga of the rumored port is one of whispers and whiplash. For a long time, the idea was pure speculation, a logical assumption that Rockstar would eventually update one of its crown jewels. However, the narrative took a sharp turn in July 2022 when a reliable Rockstar insider claimed that plans for a Red Dead Redemption 2 next-gen upgrade had been shelved. The reasoning provided was that the studio was redirecting all of its resources toward the development of the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI. For many, this seemed to be the final word on the matter.
That is, until September 2023. A massive leak of internal Microsoft documents, filed as part of the Activision Blizzard acquisition investigation, revealed a stunning piece of information. In an internal email from May 2022, Microsoft listed Red Dead Redemption 2 as a key third-party title it was targeting for a "Gen 9" (PS5 and Xbox Series X|S) release. This document served as the first concrete, official evidence that a current-gen version was not just a fan dream, but was actively being planned by developer Rockstar Games and publisher Take-Two Interactive at one point.
This revelation reignited hope, suggesting that while development may have been paused to focus on GTA VI, the project was very real. The timeline also suggests that plans were in motion right up until the time insiders reported it had been put on hold.
What About Nintendo Switch 2?
The possibility of Red Dead Redemption 2 appearing on Nintendo's next-generation console, colloquially known as the "Switch 2," is far more speculative but not without merit. In 2023, Rockstar surprised many by porting the original Red Dead Redemption to the PlayStation 4 and, crucially, the Nintendo Switch. The port was a technical success on the aging handheld hybrid, proving that the series could find a home on a Nintendo platform.
Given that the Switch's successor is expected to be significantly more powerful, a port of RDR2 is technically plausible. It would likely require significant optimization to run smoothly, but the existence of the first game's port makes it a tangible possibility. A portable version of this massive open world is an exciting prospect, though it's important to note that no specific leaks or reports have yet tied RDR2 to Nintendo's future hardware.
The Final Verdict: Is It Still Happening?
As it stands, the fate of a Red Dead Redemption 2 next-gen port is uncertain. We have strong evidence that it was planned, alongside credible reports that it was sidelined. The overwhelming success of the game and the continued demand from the community suggest it would be a commercial success for Take-Two.
The most likely scenario is that the project was indeed paused to ensure Grand Theft Auto VI receives the full attention of Rockstar's vast development talent. It is entirely possible that once GTA VI is successfully launched, the studio could revisit the RDR2 upgrade. For now, players must wait for an official announcement from the notoriously secretive developer. The trail has gone cold, but in the world of Red Dead, you never know when a new lead might emerge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Has Rockstar officially announced a PS5 or Xbox Series X|S version of Red Dead Redemption 2?
No. To date, there has been no official announcement from Rockstar Games or Take-Two Interactive regarding a native current-gen port of the game.
Can I play Red Dead Redemption 2 on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S right now?
Yes. The PlayStation 4 and Xbox One versions of the game are fully playable on the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S through backward compatibility. They benefit from faster load times but are still locked to their original resolution and 30 FPS performance targets.
What would be the biggest improvement in a native next-gen port?
The most requested and anticipated improvement is a performance mode that allows the game to run at 60 frames per second, providing a much smoother and more responsive gameplay experience.
Is a Red Dead Redemption 2 port for the Switch 2 confirmed?
No. This is purely speculation based on the release of the first Red Dead Redemption on the original Nintendo Switch and the expected power increase of its successor. There are no concrete rumors or official plans for this.